Controls Automation Engineer

Job DescriptionJob Description

About Us

BMG is an award-winning thermoforming packaging/automation solutions leader focused on a customer-centric approach. We develop solutions that meet and exceed the unique requirements of each customer’s application. BMG is a global organization representing the world’s most extensive thermoforming portfolio in the following industries: automotive, medical, electronics, horticulture, food, and process automation.

About this Opportunity

BMG has an exciting opportunity for a Controls Automation Engineer. The Controls Automation Engineer is responsible to develop and maintain software platforms for all new and existing equipment. The automation and control systems are critical for product platforms and relies on stable, robust hardware driven by a solid, well written program that is easy to support.

We are looking for someone who can work onsite at one of our USA sites: Beaverton, MI; Fremont, OH; or Knoxville, TN. We will consider a remote location for the ideal candidate who is a motion controls specialist with OEM/industrial experience with hands on programming with PLC structured text. Experience in a similar high-level programming based in C, Java, or Python along with front-end web development using CSS and a Javascript framework is also considered transferrable into this role. Experience in code development using Git, exposure to Agile programming methodologies, and knowledgeable of IoT Industry 4.0 framework is considered an asset.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Review and develop requirements, specifications, and source code in collaboration with the engineering design team to ensure seamless integration and joint approach to machine development.
2. Conception of new automation software for machine control processes while supporting continuous improvement for existing equipment.
3. Take ownership of issues and challenges related to equipment automation. Lead major machine development projects along with feature and/or bug sprint efforts.
4. Perform technical feasibility studies and provide accurate estimates for time/budgets. Report on progress versus the estimates for budgets and goal completion dates.
5. Stay informed of new developments in programming and electrical design for incorporation of latest technology into designs.
6. Prepare and maintain all documentation related to equipment and programming practices.
7. Work closely with the technical support team to provide them with software tools to service equipment. Provide flexible team -oriented support or training to other departments as required.
8. Travel as required for the role.

EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS:

1. A minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or other relevant degree with a minimum of 1 year work experience in an industrial manufacturing environment.
2. Ability to develop code from scratch using IEC 61131-3 structured text or equivalent programming style to achieve complex Automation Machine functionality. Experienced with implementing code on PLCs or IPCs. Prefer code development using Git for version control.
3. Experienced in setting up motion control for machine automation. Understanding of configuring, controlling and tuning servo motors. Prefer experience with motion camming.
4. Experienced in Front-end Human Machine Interface (HMI) development. Comfortable implementing good UX practices in creating visually-appealing and easy to operate HMI screens. Understanding of OPC-UA required. Prefer experience with styling and interacting with web-based HMIs directly using CSS and JavaScript.
5. Knowledgeable of using different automation communication protocols to link industrial components on a bus network (Powerlink, Ethernet/IP, Modbus, EtherCAT). Prefer working knowledge of IoT and Industry 4.0 frameworks.
6. Working knowledge of textual programming (Structured Text, C & C++) – experience with B&R automation.
7. Ability to plan, schedule, coordinate and problem solve effectively.
8. Excellent written and oral communication skills on a technical level.
9. Can work independently with little or no supervision.
10. Able to mentor and coach team members.
11. A minimum requirement for this position is the ability to work legally in the United States. No visa sponsorship/support is available for this position.

ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 15 lbs at times.
• Must be able to access and navigate each department at the organization’s facilities (i.e. climb stairs, ladders, etc.)